Whether you’re designing a custom home or looking to remodel your bathroom, one of the decisions that you will need to make concerning your shower is whether to use a traditional sliding glass door or hinged frameless shower doors. Shower doors are an attractive upgrade over traditional shower curtains, but it’s important to understand the differences between your options so that you can make an informed decision.
What Are the Different Types of Shower Doors?
No two bathrooms are exactly alike, and there are many different things you will get to consider as you design your perfect bathroom. Whether you have a large bathroom or a smaller bathroom, the style of your shower will be one of the decisions that can dramatically impact the final look and functionality of the room. There are a few different types of frameless glass shower doors that you will have to choose from, including:
- Sliding Glass Shower Doors: These are also known as bypass doors, and they are one of the most popular types of shower doors. These are easy to use in small spaces, and they are often used in combination shower-tubs and separate showers.
- Hinged Frameless Shower Doors: These showers are stunning to look at, and they are very popular for stand-alone showers. The hinged doors are beautiful and easy to use with any style of bathroom. At River Glass Designs, we can help you choose the perfect style of hinged frameless shower doors that will elevate the look of your bathroom.
- Bifold Shower Doors: These doors are unique, as they slide like sliding glass shower doors but also offer the movement of a hinged door. Because the doors are on a track and foldable, the panels fold together to open the door.
As you try to make your choice, here is what you should know about the differences between sliding glass shower doors and hinged frameless shower doors.
The Pros and Cons of Sliding Glass Shower Doors
Sliding glass doors are beloved by some homeowners because they offer a seamless, bright appearance and eliminate the need for a shower curtain. Just like you can use your towel rack to hold something, the bar on a sliding glass shower door is also often functional, which allows you to hang your towel directly on the door if you would like to. Since the doors do not need space to open, sliding glass shower doors are a popular choice for small bathrooms where space is at a premium.
However, sliding doors are not without issues. The door can only open so wide, so if you need more space to get in and out of your shower it might be insufficient. This can also make it tougher to bathe children. Sliding glass doors are easy to clean from the inside of the shower, but it can be very challenging to properly clean the tracks and the hardware effectively. Sliding glass doors also typically require more maintenance, as the metal tracks can rust over time and start to stick.
The Pros and Cons of Hinged Frameless Shower Doors
Hinged frameless shower doors are very popular, and it’s easy to see why. They have a large opening, as the hinged doors can open to a 90-degree angle. This makes it easier for adults with mobility issues, kids and others to step inside without concern. These are also much easier to clean than sliding glass doors, as they don’t have the risk of rust or debris accumulation in the tracks. If you want shower doors that look beautiful and stay beautiful, they are a particularly strong choice. Hinged frameless shower doors are also aesthetically appealing. They match a great deal of interior design styles, and they look clean and minimalist. The primary downside of hinged doors is that they require more space than sliding glass doors because the door will need a certain amount of space to open. If you have space concerns about your bathroom and are concerned about whether or not a hinged frameless shower door is a good fit for your interior, contact River Glass Designs. We have years of experience helping homeowners just like you find the perfect shower glass design for their space.
Where Can I Find Quality Shower Doors?
River Glass Designs has been providing homeowners with high-quality products, craftsmanship and designs since 2001. Our innovative and award-winning glass designs have been featured in regional and national publications, and we offer a full range of frameless enclosures, mirrors and other glass products. We work tirelessly to provide every client with a seamless and stress-free experience, from your initial call to the final installation. If you are looking for hinged frameless shower doors, call us today at 301-977-3020.